Khat (Catha edulis) is a stimulant plant native to tropical East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is widely used in East Africa and the Middle East and among immigrant communities in Western Europe and North America. Khat is a controlled substance in many countries, but is legally available in many others

The Khat Research Program (KRP) is a unique, multidisciplinary research and training program focusing on khat. The program is partially funded by the National Institutes of Health and the University of Minnesota. The initial phase of the program focuses on neurobehavioral and health effects of chronic khat use. KRP will form the core model for future research initiatives on khat and concurrent use of other substances, including tobacco and alcohol. The program is conducted in collaboration with multiple universities in the United States, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.